Chapter 35.5:

Earlier, in Baron Tremoux’s estate

Baron Santon Tremoux sat by his son’s bedside, his gaze fixed on the child resting peacefully. The door to the room creaked open, and his Head Butler, Simon, entered swiftly, his face lined with concern.

“Sir,” Simon began, his voice low and urgent. “The Stormbringer is headed this way.”

“I suspected as much. The lightnings were a dead giveaway.” The Baron turned slowly to face Simon, his expression calm but his eyes sharp. “But we’ve prepared for this, Simon. It’s time to enact our contingency plan.”

Simon hesitated, worry deepening on his face. “But Sir, are you certain? If we use the voidweave blend on him now, we’ll effectively be declaring war on the Champions and the capital. Our allies in the west are not ready, and we’re not yet coordinated enough for a move this significant.”

The Baron raised a hand, cutting off Simon’s anxious words. “I know, Simon. Chances are, he’s here for the boy. But if I’m wrong and he - or Alaric - has learned something about our plans, we must be prepared to act.”

Simon took a deep breath, nodding reluctantly. “Understood, sir. I’ll prepare the voidweave blend.”

“Good.” The Baron nodded, then added. “Remember the signal we discussed. If I touch my left ear, bring us the drinks. His should already be mixed with the voidweave.”

Simon nodded and turned to leave.

“Oh, and Simon,” the Baron added, his voice firm. “Inform Herring that we may need to proceed with Stormbringer’s contingency plan. Tell him to greet the Stormbringer as soon as he arrives and bring him inside. I want to keep him occupied. If he’s here for our young healer, we need to keep them apart. After all, the enemy of my enemy is my friend.”

Simon smiled softly at the Baron’s words and bowed slightly, acknowledging the orders. “Quite right, my Lord. I’ll see that Herring is informed immediately.”

As Simon departed, the baron turned back to his son, determination crossing his face. He knew he would do whatever was necessary to protect his child from harm - be it betraying his own kingdom, or even killing a Champion.

***

Leon approached the baron’s estate with a confident stride. As he neared the entrance, the guards stationed there looked up in surprise, their eyes widening in recognition.

“It’s the Stormbringer!” one of them exclaimed, a mix of awe and confusion in his voice, and all the guards in the area saluted at once.

Leon smirked, enjoying the reaction. “At ease, boys.”

“What brings you here, Sir?” a different guard asked. “We weren’t warned about your arrival.”

“Relax.” Leon replied, his tone cocky. “As a Champion of this kingdom, don’t I have free passage anywhere I please? Besides, I’m sure that booking an appointment with the Baron is a formality that applies to the likes of me.”

The guards exchanged quick glances before nodding vigorously.

“Yes, of course, Sir Valter.” One of them replied. “Right this way, Sir.”

As they escorted him to the grand entrance, Leon pondered how the thief managed to get an audience with the Baron – and, more importantly, why?

He knew his earlier display of lightning magic to the crowd had cost him the element of surprise. If the thief had any sense, he’d likely heard it too and might already be hiding.

As they approached the main doors, Leon noticed something amiss. His gaze drifted to the stables off to the side. The doors were closed, which struck him as odd. Stables were usually left open during the day to allow ventilation and avoid the buildup of unpleasant odors.

Leon paused, his sharp eyes narrowing as he studied the stables.

“Why are you keeping the doors of the stables closed?” he asked the nearest guard. “It’ll just get smelly inside.”

The guard looked momentarily flustered, uncertain. “The stable boy is probably cleaning the stalls or something.”

The answer sounded ridiculous to Leon, only heightening his suspicion. His gut told him something was off, and his instincts were usually spot on. Trusting his hunch, he directed himself toward the stables, but before he could take more than a step, one of the Baron’s representatives emerged from the mansion and addressed him.

“Sir Valter, the Baron heard of your arrival and is expecting you.”

Leon halted. He knew that getting answers from the Baron seemed more likely to advance his search. He made a mental note to return and investigate the stables if his conversation with the Baron proved unfruitful.

“Splendid.” Leon smiled, flashing a smile. He turned and followed the man inside.

***

Leon followed the Baron’s representative through the mansion, his senses on high alert. As they walked, he subtly enhanced his hearing, hoping to catch any suspicious sounds that might reveal the thief’s whereabouts. Gradually, he heightened the rest of his senses, attuning himself to any bursts of mana use that might signal the thief’s presence. But there was nothing unusual – only the quiet murmurs of servants going about their work. Boring.

“So, what’s your role here?” Leon asked, his tone casual as he glanced at the representative.

“I am his Lordship’s herald.” The man replied with a hint of pride. “Lucas Herring, Sir.”

Leon’s eyes lit up. “Oh, then you’re one of the people I’m looking for.” He said, his tone shifting to mild interest. “The guards in town told me you led a certain individual into this estate today. Is he still here?”

The herald hesitated for a moment before answering. “No, I’m afraid he’s no longer here. He was a healer who treated the Baron’s son and has since left.”

Leon chuckled. “A healer? I know him by a different occupation.”

“What do you mean, Sir?” the herald asked, curious.

Leon raised an eyebrow. “Wasn’t it obvious to you? He’s a thief. Plain and simple.”

The herald shrugged. “I’m not sure I agree, Sir. He seemed like an expert, and he did treat the Baron’s son.”

Leon’s mind raced. ‘What kind of joke is this?’ he thought. ‘Are they covering for him? Or did the guards in town lie and send me to the wrong person?’

“The Baron will see you, regardless.” The herald added quickly, gesturing to a large wooden door where a butler stood waiting. “This way, Sir.”

The herald knocked once before pushing the door open and gesturing for Leon to enter, remaining outside himself, closing the door.

The Baron was already inside, seated in a high-backed chair. He stood up as Leon entered, leaning on his cane for support. The baron’s gaze was sharp and calculating, a striking contrast to his otherwise frail appearance – something Leon immediately noticed.

“Stormbringer,” the Baron greeted, extending a hand. “I don’t believe we’ve ever been personally introduced. I am Baron Santon Tremoux.”

Leon gave a mock bow, a smirk playing on his lips as he took the Baron’s hand and shook it firmly. “Leon Valter. A pleasure, Baron Tremoux.”

“Please, have a seat.” The Baron gestured to a chair opposite his own.

Once they were both seated, the Baron looked at Leon expectantly. “To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit, Sir Valter?”

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Leon glanced around the room with a casual air, concealing his true intent. First, he needed to unsettle the baron, to lower his guard. “I must say, Tehl is quite the charming city. It’s actually my first time here.”

The Baron smiled politely. “Thank you. We do our best to keep it prosperous and welcoming.”

“Then let me say – you’re doing a mighty fine job.” Leon smiled. “That fountain in the center alone is a work of art that could rival the works of the greatest minds in Willox.”

The Baron nodded appreciatively. “You flatter us too much, Sir.”

Leon leaned back, crossing his arms, shifting to offense. “As for your residence, and I don’t mean to sound rude, Baron, but what kind of greeting is this? Where are the drinks? Perhaps some food? The journey from Willox was not a short one.”

“Of course.” The baron nodded and called toward the door. “Simon.”

The butler entered the room, looking noticeably nervous – something Leon found curious. The man seemed too seasoned to be rattled by the visit of anyone important, even someone like Leon.

“Yes, my Lord?” the butler asked, his voice controlled but Leon noticed the slight tension.

“Please fetch us some drinks and refreshments.” The Baron ordered calmly, his hands resting on the table.

Leon analyzed the Baron’s expression, but even if the man was unsettled, he hid it well.

The butler bowed and left, leaving Leon and the Baron alone once more.

“Much better.” Leon said, a grin etched across his face. “Now, onto the matter in hand. I’m looking for a thief. He stole something of great importance from the kingdom’s treasury.”

“From the kingdom’s treasury?” The Baron asked, visibly surprised.

“Indeed.” Leon nodded slowly, surprised by the reaction. He was sure all the nobles in Morthryga already knew about that attempted heist.

“I see.” The Baron replied, nodding thoughtfully. “And you believe this thief to be in Tehl?”

“Oh, I don’t just believe.” Leon grinned. “I’m certain of it.”

The Baron maintained a calm expression. “Then perhaps you should ask the guards downtown about this thief. I’m sure they’ll be more than willing to help. And in the highly unlikely chance that they aren’t, you let me know, and I’ll personally intervene. How does that sound?”

Just one answer was enough the set Leon’s bullshit radar off. He could tell the Baron was hiding something.

“You see, I already visited the guards earlier today, and they told me...” He said, grinning, before pointing both of his index fingers down at the floor. “He’s here.”

The Baron’s expression remained neutral. “Is that so? I hardly understand what they could mean, but I can assure you that my estate does not harbor criminals.”

Leon rolled his eyes. “Oh, come on, Baron. Don’t play coy. I’m talking about the young man who came here to treat your son. Your herald has already confirmed he was here.”

The Baron’s expression appeared confused, but Leon noticed something else - a slight tension in his shoulders.

‘Good,’ Leon thought, ‘keep him on edge.’

“Are you perhaps referring to the young man who treated my son earlier?” the Baron asked. “If so, I can assure you he’s merely a traveling healer.”

“A healer…” Leon laughed hearing those words again. “Perhaps that’s the guise he’s chosen for himself, but trust me, he’s nothing more than a lowly thief.”

“I’m not so sure about that, Sir Valter.” The Baron replied, shaking his head. “He treated my son with remarkable skill.”

Leon laughed even harder this time. “If I were you, I’d be worried. That so-called ‘healer’ might have worsened your boy’s condition.”

The Baron fired back immediately, his tone resolute. “I’ve already confirmed with my herbalists. The young man’s treatment was entirely legitimate.”

Leon was taken aback, surprised by both the swiftness and certainty of the Baron’s reply.

“Okay.” Leon said, raising his hands in a conceding manner. “Let’s say he’s a healer - which he’s not - but for the sake of argument, I’ll roll with you on this one. Where did he come from?”

Leon was already certain the Baron wasn’t being truthful and was hoping to catch him in a slip.

“I’m not sure, to be honest. He was private about his origins.” The Baron replied smoothly. “And he seemed too focused on his work to be bothered with questions.”

Leon’s eyes narrowed. “And you didn’t find that suspicious? A healer just shows up out of nowhere, treats your son, and leaves?”

He phrased the question this way intentionally, hoping to catch the Baron off guard. After all, he already knew the thief hadn’t simply ‘shown up’ but was brought here by the herald. And if that was the case, the Baron knew exactly where to look for him.

The Baron shrugged. “Healers often travel, offering their services wherever they’re needed. It’s not unusual.”

‘Got you.’ Leon thought, a wide smile spreading across his face.

“But you sent your herald to fetch him.” He pressed, grinning. “A traveling healer, and you knew exactly where to find him?”

The Baron’s eyes seemed to gleam, clearly calculating his responses. “We had heard of his reputation through various channels. My men were sent to seek him out based on these recommendations.”

The baron remained evasive, and Leon’s patience was wearing thin. “Various channels? What kind of channels? Who exactly recommended him?”

The Baron smiled. “Merchants and travellers passing through. Word of mouth spreads quickly when someone is as skilled as he is.”

Leon’s irritation surged, but he masked it with a casual smile, confident the Baron would eventually entangle himself in his lies. “Oh, yeah? What merchants? What travelers? Can you direct me to them?”

‘No way he has names or locations for these so-called travelers and merchants.’ Leon thought. ‘He’s surely bluffing.’

But to his dismay, the Baron remained unflustered. “I’m afraid I didn’t personally handle the recommendations. My staff did. I can have Herring provide you with a list of names, if that would help.”

Leon kept his casual smile while inside he was ready to burst.

“Where did they find him?” he asked, hoping to extract at least that piece of information.

“I’m not certain.” The Baron replied casually. “That’s another question for Herring.”

Just then, the butler returned, carrying a tray filled with an assortment of fruits and two glasses of sparkling water.

“Thank you, Simon.” The Baron nodded at his servant,who, before leaving, gave a brief, nervous nod back to his lord.

Leon wasn’t actually hungry or thirsty, so he ignored the tray and continued his questioning.

“And where did he go after treating your son?” he asked.

“He mentioned continuing his journey but didn’t specify where to.” The Baron replied. “Perhaps to another village or town in need.”

Growing tired of the evasions, Leon leaned forward, his eyes cold. “Baron, you must understand the importance of this matter. The item stolen is of immeasurable value.”

“I wouldn’t treat it as anything less - especially when the Stormbringer himself comes to me for this matter.” The Baron replied, his tone even. “And I assure you that if I had any useful information regarding your investigation, I would’ve gladly shared it with you. But I fear you’re barking up the wrong tree here, Sir Valter.”

Leon’s thoughts raced. He knew the baron was hiding something, but he couldn’t prove it. The idea of blasting him with lightning to end this aggravating exchange crossed his mind, but he managed to keep his composure.

Meanwhile, the Baron shifted slightly in his chair. “Tell me, Sir Valter, how is Sir Belton these days?” he asked, his tone casual but his eyes gleaming.

Leon’s jaw tightened at the mention of Alaric. The Baron knew exactly where to prod. “Sir Belton is as insufferable as always. Why do you ask?”

The Baron’s faint smile was almost mocking. “He was a close friend of my late father. Did you know? I was curious how he’s faring, but from your answer, I assume - same as always?”

Leon chuckled, recognizing the Baron’s attempts to unsettle him. He knew if it continued, it would likely work. And if the Baron’s father had indeed been Alaric’s friend, it was reasonable to assume the Baron held similar loyalties. That alone was reason enough to leave.

“I’ll be taking that list of recommendations you mentioned.” Leon said, rising from his chair. “And since there’s nothing else useful you can offer, I’ll be on my way.”

“Certainly. Herring will provide you with the details.” The Baron said as he rose, extending his hand once more. “It was a pleasure meeting you, Stormbringer. Safe travels.”

Leon didn’t return the handshake.

“Thank you, Baron.” He replied coldly, feeling the entire encounter had been a waste of time. He turned to leave.

“Oh, and Sir Valter.” The Baron called after him with a mocking smile. “Send my best regards to Sir Belton, would you?”

Leon smirked. “I won’t.”

Once he exited the mansion, the Baron felt a wave of relief wash over him. He sank back into his chair, letting out a long breath. He sensed the bloodlust coming from Sir Valter through most of their exchange and was relieved he was still alive and in one piece.

Simon entered immediately. “I assume he didn’t touch his drink, Sir?”

The baron wanted to be angry at Simon for acting without the agreed signal, but he couldn’t bring himself to scold the man who had been like a father to him. Instead, he spoke calmly.

“It was risky, Simon. You should have waited for my signal.”

“I know, Sir, and I apologize.” Simon replied sincerely. “I just thought it might be our only chance. He likely wouldn’t have asked for another drink later.”

“True.” The Baron agreed. “But I realized early on that he was clueless about us. My first guess was right - he was here for the boy.”

Simon nodded. “What now?”

“We continue our preparations.” The Baron answered simply. “Today wasn’t the day, but soon enough, our plan will be set in motion.”

***

The list of names and addresses proved to be a hoax, as Leon expected. None of the people were present when he visited the given addresses, and Leon wondered if they even existed in the first place.

When he questioned the herald about where he had supposedly found this so-called healer, the answer he received was equally useless: “On the road leading to Tehl. He was coming from the north.”

Even the stables, which he checked on his way out, were empty of anyone to question.

Leon sighed heavily, tasting the bitterness of failure. The idea of returning to the Baron’s estate and wreaking havoc on it – and the annoying Baron – sounded firm and satisfying in his mind. He was ready to act on it when Alaric’s voice cut through his thoughts, cold and familiar.

“What did I tell you when you left?” the voice asked icily.

‘The damn Baron...’ Leon thought. ‘He already alerted Alaric.’

“Get out of my head, old man!” Leon shouted, but the response was immediate: an intense pain flared in his chest, dropping him to his knees.

“What did I tell you when you left?” Alaric repeated, his tone unchanging as he inflicted the excruciating pain from afar.

Leon gritted his teeth, speaking through the pain. “Not to intervene.”

“Then what are you trying to do?” Alaric’s calm voice continued, though the pain remained unrelenting.

“You’re right, I’ll stop!” Leon managed through clenched teeth. Gradually, the pain disappeared, leaving him breathless as he collapsed on his back, whispering. “Bastard.”

“You’ll return to the palace immediately.” Alaric commanded.

“But he’s here.” Leon protested, a storm of emotions swirling inside him. “We know he’s here. Why do we wait for Bane to betray us?”

“Because I said so.” Alaric replied. “And now you’ll return to the palace without asking any more questions. Do you know why?”

Leon remained silent, already knowing the answer, but he sensed Alaric wanted to hear him say it.

“Because you said so.”